How do you find and harvest Barley and Flax in the Plains?

Finding and harvesting Barley and Flax in the Plains biome of Valheim is essential for progressing in the late game, as these resources are used to craft powerful gear and food. Both Barley and Flax are exclusive to the Plains biome, making them rare and valuable. To locate these crops, you must first venture into the Plains, a dangerous biome filled with hostile creatures like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Preparation is key, as the Plains are unforgiving for unprepared players.\n\nBefore entering the Plains, ensure you have high-tier armor, such as Wolf Armor or Padded Armor, and a strong weapon like a Blackmetal Sword or Frostner. Bring healing meads, stamina meads, and a bow with plenty of arrows to deal with ranged threats like Deathsquitos. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the Plains border to serve as a safe retreat point. This will allow you to recover and store resources without risking long treks back to your main base.\n\nBarley and Flax are typically found in Fuling villages, which are small settlements populated by Fulings and their shamans. These villages are scattered throughout the Plains and are identifiable by their wooden palisades, totems, and thatched huts. Approach cautiously, as Fulings are aggressive and can overwhelm you in numbers. Use stealth or ranged attacks to thin their numbers before engaging in close combat. Once the village is cleared, you can safely search for Barley and Flax.\n\nBarley and Flax grow in small patches within the village, often near the huts or in fenced areas. They resemble tall, golden stalks and can be harvested by interacting with them. Each plant yields one Barley or Flax, so gather as much as you can. Be sure to leave some plants intact, as they will regrow over time, allowing you to return for more resources later. This is especially useful if you plan to farm these crops at your base.\n\nTo farm Barley and Flax, you will need a Cultivator, which is crafted using Bronze and Core Wood. Once you have a Cultivator, prepare a farming area at your base by tilling the soil. Barley and Flax can only be planted in the Plains biome, so if your base is elsewhere, you will need to create a small Plains farm. This can be done by transporting Plains soil or building a base near the Plains. Plant the Barley and Flax seeds in the tilled soil and wait for them to grow. Harvesting fully grown crops will yield both the resource and additional seeds, allowing you to expand your farm.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with Fuling raids on your Plains farm. To protect your crops, build defensive structures like walls, spikes, and ballistae. You can also tame Lox to act as guards, as they are naturally hostile to Fulings. Another tip is to plant your crops in a secure, enclosed area to minimize damage during raids. Additionally, always keep an eye on your stamina and health while farming, as Deathsquitos can quickly ambush you.\n\nIn summary, Barley and Flax are vital resources found in the Plains biome, primarily within Fuling villages. Prepare thoroughly before venturing into the Plains, clear Fuling villages carefully, and harvest the crops to start farming. Use a Cultivator to plant and grow these crops, and protect your farm from raids with defensive measures. With patience and preparation, you can secure a steady supply of Barley and Flax for crafting and survival.